In the story of Jesus’ birth, I wonder if the Magi ever
stopped to ask directions. Although the biblical record says they were guided
by a star, the journey was a long one, and stars are not visible during the
day.
I don't like to stop and ask for directions. I usually think
I can figure it out myself. I am hesitant to take the time to ask for
directions because the stop will make me late.
I remember one time I stopped for directions and was told;
"well you can't get there from here". The comment was an
acknowledgement that I needed to get on the right road before I could get to
the desired destination.
I have often reflected on that comment. I wonder if God
might say the same to the church.
I remember as a child hearing remarkable stories of faith -
where people placed themselves into a place of great risk, and then finding a
miraculous encounter with God's grace. I longed to experience similar stories
but recognized that I was not willing to embrace the risk necessary for such a
story. I wanted the relief of a miraculous intervention without embracing the
risky platform of faith. I think God would say to me "you can't get there
from here."
I remember as a teen listening to a missionary tell the
story of their spouse who was murdered in the service of the church. The
remarkable grace displayed by the missionary in retelling the story was
striking. The experience opened up many speaking engagements to share the
story.
After the message a number of youth wanted to have follow up conversations. One individual
expressed a desire to have a similar ministry. The missionary paused and asked;
"do you want to experience the pain that developed made the story?"
I recognized myself in that encounter. I too wanted an
exciting testimony to share, but I didn't want to experience the sorrow that
created such an understanding of God's grace. I think God would say to me:
"You can't get there from here."
Now, many life experiences later, I have bruises, scars and
memories. They remind me of God's faithfulness. Every time I run my fingers
along a bumpy scar on my back I am reminded of God's intervention of grace.
I have come to learn that life doesn't consult you before
introducing pain, sorrow or disappointment. Yet it is in these events where the
richness of God's presence is experienced.
Wondering what a New Year will bring can be intimidating if
we dwell on it for too long. Times of uncertainty and confusion can be fearful.
It can make the church question the presence of God. Yet experience tells us,
that if our intention is to be where God wants us to be, then no matter how
daunting and fearful the journey - we will be able to get there from here.
